I thought I'd understood
Deep affection.
Hadn't I shed penitent tears,
Given the best that I could give?
I'd thought much about the hope
One oil-bearing woman gave to me—as sinner—
Her being close to Jesus
And having his approval;
Knew well how much she loved,
With so much sin forgiven her.
But now I see
Repentance marked her tenderness;
Her life already turning around,
Her pardon won before that ointment-shedding.
Affection naturally poured forth
And was well received.
Behind the tears,
A newfound joy.
Behind the tender touch,
A deeper love for God.
Father,
Help me strive for more than even human caring.
Let me see, like Mary at the tomb,
The risen Christ—
A higher view of man expressed;
Early in the day claim God's man innocent,
Pure, and free;
Know God's sweet love
Touching humanity.
